“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12)

Part 1 of 3

Growing up I worked at a summer camp. Each year the camp had a themed Bible verse that was presented to the kids and taught on in the chapel services. The second year I worked, Hebrews 4:12 was the verse. Since then, this verse has stuck with me, making a profound impact on my life because it placed an importance on the Word of God. Thinking of it often, I understood early that the scriptures were there to help and guide me through life. In fact they became life to me because the word that God speaks is alive and full of power, which makes it effective and life changing.

It is no coincidence that this verse is found in the middle of instruction on entering into God’s rest through Jesus. Hebrews 4:11 gives warning to make every effort of entering into rest; not following in Israel’s example of disobedience and unbelief. To do this we must learn who God is and understand His nature and will concerning us. This is accomplished through scripture. The Word of God has an active part in remaining in rest.

The true Sabbath Rest is found in Jesus; we enter by trusting in Him and the finished work of the cross. But to remain and stay in this place takes effort, not because we must do something to remain saved, but because we have a tendency to take back control and strive in the midst of circumstances. Instead we must rely solely on Him; not trusting in ourselves when situations come against us. The more we let the truth of scripture speak into our lives, the more we will trust God when things beyond our control happen because we know His promises. He reminds us of the things he has said in His Word, bringing both encouragement and confidence.

Tomorrow we will look at Part 2; The Difference Between the Soul and the Spirit.

“Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience” (Hebrews 4:11)

It takes effort to enter into God’s rest, it takes faith. Resting in God’s grace comes moment by moment, resisting the urge to trust in ourselves. This is a process in which the foundation hinges on God’s character. Unless we lay a good foundation understanding who God is and His will concerning us we will never be able to build and surround ourselves in the rest that God desires for us to experience in Him.